The BMW M4 GTS is the ultimate M model

A BMW with the M badge is considered a truly special car. So imagine the delight of the BMW faithful and car enthusiasts when they see the letters 'GTS' attached to the M4 nameplate. The previous M3 GTS was a lightened and more powerful version of an already fast sports coupe, so a new iteration is exciting stuff.

Taking a cue from the M4, the GTS uses the same six-cylinder turbo motor found under the hood. The GTS, however, adds an innovative water-injection system to the 3.0-liter mill, raising the power and the torque to 500hp and 600Nm. Apart from the potent lump, the new M4 GTS utilizes intelligent lightweight construction, with a curb weight pegged at 1,510kg. This was achieved with weight-saving techniques like a carbon-fiber instrument panel brace, as well as carbon-fiber reinforced plastics for the hood, the roof, the front splitter and the rear spoiler, among others.

In other words, the new M4 GTS can scoot to the century mark from a standstill in a supercar-like 3.8 seconds and top out at 305kph. Moreover, it has clocked a lap time of 7:28 minutes around the Nurburgring, where BMW engineers honed this machine’s finely tuned dynamics. For even greater driving fun, the driver can shift the seven-speed M double-clutch transmission via paddles or the shift lever. There are even Drivelogic shift programs and launch control that ups the fun factor even further.

Of course, this special model isn’t just about all-out driving performance. BMW has likewise endowed the car with cool technologies that make it a cut above the rest of the performance pack. For instance, the new M4 GTS will debut the world’s first organic light emitting diode (OLED) tech utilized for the car’s taillights. Unlike ordinary LED lighting that emits its beam in points, OLED units light up the entire surface. This means more possibilities and brighter driving at night or inclement weather.

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To make sure that the driver and the passenger stay cool and comfortable on the road or the track, the M4 GTS comes with carbon-fiber M bucket seats. The driver also grips an Alcantara-clad M sports steering wheel with a specially marked 12 o'clock position. To help cut down on weight, the rear seat has been removed. Taking its place is a glass-fiber reinforced plastic shelf and panel.

Hardcore enthusiasts, meanwhile, can opt to spec their ride with the Clubsport Package, which adds a roll bar in Acid Orange behind the front seats, a six-point racing harness, and a fire extinguisher. These will turn the M4 GTS into the ultimate track car.

And that’s exactly the point of the M4 GTS. It is the ultimate expression of the M Performance division that can be used for the daily grind, or the weekend run on one’s favorite racetrack. It’s a truly fitting way to celebrate the M3’s 30th birthday. With just 700 units planned, this is one BMW you shouldn’t pass up.